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Qutenza Patch
Qutenza is a topical capsaicin patch that desensitizes nociceptors (pain-sensing nerve fibers) by depleting substance P, reducing localized neuropathic pain.
Qutenza is a topical capsaicin patch that desensitizes nociceptors (pain-sensing nerve fibers) by depleting substance P, reducing localized neuropathic pain. Used for Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), Peripheral neuropathic pain.
At a glance
| Generic name | Qutenza Patch |
|---|---|
| Also known as | 8% capsaicin patch, capsaicin 8% patch, cis-capsaicin, Capsaicin, Topical capsaicin 8% |
| Sponsor | M.D. Anderson Cancer Center |
| Drug class | Topical analgesic; TRPV1 agonist |
| Target | TRPV1 (transient receptor potential vanilloid 1) |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Pain Management / Neurology |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Capsaicin, the active ingredient, binds to TRPV1 (transient receptor potential vanilloid 1) channels on C-fiber nociceptors, causing initial activation followed by prolonged desensitization. This leads to depletion of substance P, a key neurotransmitter in pain signaling, resulting in sustained analgesia in the treated area. The effect is localized to the skin application site.
Approved indications
- Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN)
- Peripheral neuropathic pain
Common side effects
- Application site erythema (redness)
- Application site pain or burning
- Application site edema (swelling)
- Transient increase in pain at application site
Key clinical trials
- Serratus Plane Block (SPB) Versus Capsaïcine Versus Botox-A for Chronic Neuropathic Pain in Post-mastectomy Syndrome (PHASE2)
- Study Evaluating the Analgesic Efficacy of Capsaicin 8% Patches in Chronic Coccygodynia. (PHASE3)
- Exploring the Benefit of Topical Capsaicin in Treating Pain From Chemo-induced Peripheral Neuropathy: a Longitudinal Single Center Pilot Study (EARLY_PHASE1)
- Analgesic Effectiveness of Capsaicin 8% Cutaneous Patch in Children (PHASE3)
- Does the Application of Cold Decreases the Pain Associated in the Pose of a Patch of Capsaicine at High Concentration on the Carrier Patients of Localized Neuropathic Pains ? - DIDOCAP (NA)
- Exploring Sympathetic Nervous System Function in Individuals With Down Syndrome (PHASE3)
- Topographical Distribution of Itch and Pain Receptors (NA)
- To Check Dermatological Safety of Test Products by 24 Hours Patch Testing (NA)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |